Many people normally think of heart attacks, strokes, and kidney disease as the primary health concerns associated with high blood pressure, also called hypertension. But did you know that unmanaged hypertension can also elevate your danger for hearing loss, especially as you age?
Age-related hearing loss, or presbycusis, usually begins to show signs in your 40s, 50s, or 60s. It may advance gradually and without noticeable symptoms, but the damage it creates is often permanent. In many instances, this kind of hearing loss derives from years of cumulative damage to the auditory system. One substantial but frequently ignored contributing factor is elevated blood pressure, which can damage the fragile blood vessels in the inner ear.
Why is it important to comprehend blood pressure?
Blood pressure is a measure of the strength of blood flow in your arteries. When this pressure is consistently too high, it puts substantial strain on your blood vessels. With time, this can cause the vessels to stiffen, narrow, or become damaged, increasing your risk for severe health issues– including hearing loss.
Your blood pressure reading is composed of two numbers:
- The systolic reading, which is the top number, signifies the force of blood flow when the heart contracts.
- The diastolic pressure, shown by the bottom number, assesses the pressure during the heart’s resting phase.
Categories of blood pressure
- Normal: Less than 120/80 mm Hg
- Elevated: 120-129/<80 mm Hg
- Stage 1 Hypertension: 130-139/80 -89 mm Hg
- Stage 2 Hypertension: 140+/ 90+ mm Hg
- Hypertensive Crisis: Over 180/120 mm Hg (emergency care required)
- Embrace a diet that supports heart health by emphasizing whole grains, fruits, vegetables, lean proteins, and good fats. Consider starting with the DASH or Mediterranean diet for a healthy foundation.
- Get regular exercise: Attempt to get at least 150 minutes of moderate exersize every week.
- Minimize salt consumption by limiting processed and fast food intake, as they usually contain high levels of sodium.
- Stick to medication instructions: If advised, consistently follow the guidelines for taking your blood pressure medication as provided by your physician.
- Decrease stress: Make time for calming activities including mindfulness exercises, gentle stretches, or silent reflection to help you unwind and find equilibrium in your daily life.
- Steer clear of prolonged exposure to loud noise: Wear hearing protection when attending concerts, working with noisy equipment, or in noisy environments.
- Use hearing protection: Earplugs or noise-canceling headphones can reduce the risk of sound-induced hearing damage.
- Routine check-ups with a hearing specialist can significantly enhance the success of treatment and total ear health by catching any potential issues early on.
How high blood pressure can impact your ears
The ears are home to a complex network of tiny blood vessels that provide oxygen and nutrients to the auditory system. When hypertension compromises these vessels, the ear structures– particularly the cochlea and tiny sensory hair cells called stereocilia– can become damaged.
The stereocilia play a critical role in transforming sound waves into electrical signals that can be understood by the brain. Regrettably, they do not regrow once damaged. As a result, hearing loss from vascular damage triggered by high blood pressure is typically permanent.
Scientific studies reveal a powerful correlation between high blood pressure and the severity of hearing loss. People with normal blood pressure tend to preserve better hearing over time, while those with high blood pressure are at greater risk for both developing and exacerbating hearing impairment.
Is ear discomfort a sign of high blood pressure?
Despite the vascular harm it causes, high blood pressure rarely appears with noticeable symptoms. It is sometimes referred to as the “silent killer” as a result of this. A prevalent misconception is that sensations like “hot ears” or ear pressure suggest high blood pressure. In reality, these symptoms are more likely due to hormonal changes, stress, or emotional reactions.
However, some people with hypertension do experience worsened symptoms of tinnitus– a ringing or buzzing in the ears. If you experience chronic tinnitus or suspect hearing changes, it’s important to talk to a hearing care professional for a complete evaluation.
Managing blood pressure and safeguarding your hearing
The good news is that blood pressure can often be controlled through lifestyle modifications and medical treatment. Reducing your blood pressure could also have the additional advantage of protecting your hearing or halting its decline.
Tips for reducing blood pressure
While treating hypertension is important, it’s also important to take practical steps to safeguard your ears.
Safeguarding your hearing: essential measures
Along with managing your blood pressure, the following practices can help you safeguard your hearing:
Concerned about hearing loss and blood pressure? Be proactiove.
If you have been diagnosed with high blood pressure and are experiencing indications of hearing difficulty– such as frequently asking others to repeat themselves, struggling to hear conversations in loud places, or cranking up the volume on devices– it’s time to schedule an appointment with a hearing specialist.
Your auditory well-being is important. Act promptly as early action can have a substantial impact.
Reach out to us now to begin the journey to better hearing